The Somaliland President arrived in Dakar on Thursday night at 11:20pm Hargeisa local time. He was given an official welcome at Dakar international airport where he was greeted by a host of Senegalese officials led by Minister for Foreign, AU and Emigrants Affairs, Sheikh Tijanii Gaajow, Special Advisor for the President, Mr. Takhate and other dignitaries. One hour and a half following his arrival in the Senegalese capital, Mr. Rayale was received by President Abdulla Wade.

At a dinner banquet hosted yesterday by President Wade in the Presidential palace, the two leaders exchanged views on bilateral and continental issues.

President Rayale left Hargeisa on Wednesday afternoon to Addis Ababa, then continued his journey to Dakar. He is being accompanied by Foreign Minister Mohamed Saeed Gees, Minister for Family Development and Social Affairs, Ms Edna Adan and Minister of Education, Ahmed Yusuf Dualle.